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4 Digestive Causes of Abdominal Pain
You should not live with abdominal pains. You can feel it when you have eaten or it could stick with you throughout the day. It is usually followed by nausea, vomiting, gas and bloating.
Anybody, anytime, can hit the abdominal pains. Stomachache can spoil your plans whether you are getting tacos at Montrose or dining in the Heights. At Gastrodoxs we think that when you know what makes you feel bad, you are more likely to feel better sooner.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri gave the best 4 causes of digestive abdominal pains in this guide. We will discuss them in simple terms, provide the signs of warning and provide means of relief. Let's dive in!
Quote by Dr. Bharat Pothuri "The most frequent presentation of patients to my clinic in Houston is abdominal pain, says Dr. Pothuri. We need to treat it more quickly by finding the root cause such as GERD or gallstones.
Section 1: Gaining an understanding of Digestive Abdominal Pain
Where It Hurts Matters
Above the ribs: stomach, gallbladder, pancreas
Lower abdomen: intestines or colon
General pains: may be gas, indigestion or stomach virus
How It Feels
Sharp or stabbing
Dull or achy
Cramping
Burning
Calling a Doctor as soon as possible
Severe, constant pain
Fever over 101 degree F
Blood in vomit or stool
Sudden weight loss
Section 2: Cause: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
What Is IBS?
IBS is a permanent disease of large intestine. It leads to cramping, gas, bloating and bowel modification.
Symptoms
Lower belly crampy pain
Bloating after eating
The diarrhea or constipation (or both)
Mucus in stool
Why It Happens
Food sensitivities
Stress or anxiety
Difficulty in connecting the gut-brain
Dr. Pothuri's Tip: "Try a food diary. My patients in Houston find out that dairy or greasy foods are the triggers of symptoms.
Simple Ways to Feel Better
Eat small, frequent meals
Reduce gassy foods such as cabbage and beans
Attempt fiber supplements (such as psyllium)
Breathe deeply or do yoga
Section 3: Cause of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is classified
What Is GERD?
GERD occurs when esophagus is filled with stomach acid. It brings about heartburn and other symptoms.
Symptoms
Chest pains as burning
Sour taste or food coming up
Sore throat or hoarseness
Worse when lying down
Why It Happens
Sphincter Weakness of lower esophagus
Being fat or having a bad diet
Smoking or drinking alcohol
Dr. Pothuri's Tip: "Spicy foods are delicious although they may aggravate GERD. Watch out in Houston hot food restaurants."
Ways to Find Relief
Totally avoid trigger foods: citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, mint
Don't eat 2-3 hours before bed
Raise your bed head by 6-8 inches
Try antacids or H2 blockers
Section 4: Cause #3 Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
What Is It?
Peptic ulcer is a wound on the stomach or the upper intestine. It brings about burning sensation, particularly in between meals.
Symptoms
Far-away aching or pains at night or when hungry
Nausea or vomiting
Feeling full quickly
Bleeding (in severe cases)
Why It Happens
H. pylori infection
Excessive use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Dr. Pothuri's Tip: "H. pylori is easy to detect. It is usually conformed by a breath test."
Treatment Tips
In case of a positive H. pylori, take as per your doctor
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) should be avoided or discussed with your physician
Reduce the amount of coffee and spicy food
External Link NIH on Peptic Ulcers
Section 5: Cause #4 Gallstones
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are solid masses which develop in your gallbladder. They are able to obstruct the flow of bile and cause pain.
Symptoms
Pain in the upper right belly is sharp
Pain to the back or shoulder
Fatty meals make one sick or vomit
Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
Why It Happens
Excess cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile
Gallbladder does not empty completely
Risks: overweight, dietering, fatty diet
Dr. Pothuri's Tip: "Summers can make a person dehydrated in Houston, and this causes bile to thicken increasing the risk of gallstones."
How to Feel Better
Select lean meat and vegetables
Consume lots of water particularly during summer
In case the pain continues to recur, consult an expert
The Abdominal pain is a common thing, and the cause is known, which means that you find the way to relieve it. IBS, GERD, peptic ulcers, and gallstones are the 4 leading 4 digestive causes in Houston. You can have control over your gut by making some minor adjustments and with medical help. To get additional assistance, go to Gastrodoxs and learn about our wellness resources.
About the Author
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.